Return of Restaurant Week

By
Erin

It's that time of year again. Yes, of course, New Year's, Christmas and Hanukkah are approaching, but restaurant- and bargain-lovers know that early January means Restaurant Week. Once again, some of the area's best restaurants will dish up a three-course prix fixe lunch and/or dinner. This upcoming year being 2007 and all, it's only fitting that the respective prices check in at $20.07 and $30.07.

For those watching the post-holidays budget, Restaurant Week is the perfect opportunity to splurge on flavor while saving on cost. For those whose pockets are stuffed with a holiday bonus or cash from relatives, use the money saved on food to gorge on supplemental dishes or sample the best wines in the cellar.

Though the official list has not yet been published, you can bet that most regulars will be participating. Sadly, Kinkead's, which was a winner in the past few Restaurant Weeks, will not offer the special, but here are a few of my favorites.

1789, which has truly come into its own under Chef Nathan Beauchamp, will offer its full menu. Items like foie gras and lobster will require a surcharge, but you can expect a stellar dinner for a fraction of its usual price.

Acadiana, part of Passion Food Hospitality group that owns DC Coast, Ceiba and TenPenh, will offer its full menu of rich Louisiana fare. Like its sister restaurants, Acadiana will offer all of its entrees, with a limited selection of starters and desserts.

Butterfield 9, which is well-situated for those looking to dash to a show at National Theatre or a movie at E Street, will offer limited selections from its innovative, seasonal menu.

The Bombay Club, a regal Indian dining destination, will have highlights from its menu available during the special. Tandoori salmon, duck kebab and fish tikka will be available as well as numerous items for vegetarian Restaurant Weekers.

Cafe Atlantico will have its full menu available during Restaurant Week. Talented chef Katsuya combines flavors and textures for playful and imaginative dishes.

The newly opened and much anticipated Farrah Olivia will also participate. With flavors from three continents, the dishes are adventurous. Chef Morou promises to offer nearly all of the menu, including his signature fritters but excluding some of the most expensive dishes.

Oya once again elevates the promotion from Restaurant Week to Restaurant Month. Running from Jan. 2-31, the menu will offer a selection of three-four choices for each course from the menu of Asian and French fusion dishes.